The True Cost Of Siding For Your One-Story Home

The cost of siding for a one-story house varies depending on the size of the house, the type of siding, and the complexity of the installation. On average, siding costs between $4 and $13 per square foot, with the total cost for a 2,500-square-foot house ranging from $10,000 to $32,500. Vinyl siding, a popular and affordable option, typically costs between $4 and $12 per square foot. Aluminum siding is also a cost-effective choice, ranging from $2 to $5 per square foot. More expensive options include fiber cement, wood, and engineered wood, which fall into the mid-range. The most costly options are steel, brick, stucco, and stone. The labour cost for siding installation is an additional expense that typically ranges from $1 to $4 per square foot.

Siding costs by material

The cost of siding varies depending on the material used. Vinyl is the least expensive option, costing between $4.50 to $12 per square foot, or $10,000 to $32,500 for an average 2,500-square-foot house. It is lightweight, easy to install, and moisture-resistant. Wood siding is a classic choice that costs between $4 to $15 per square foot. Different types of wood have different qualities, with longer-lasting and rot-resistant species such as redwood and cedar being more expensive. Fiber cement siding, made from sand and cardboard, costs between $5 to $15 per square foot. It looks like natural wood but is heavier and takes longer to install. Stucco, a combination of sand and cement or lime, requires a specialized artisan to install and costs around $8 to $17 per square foot. Brick is another classic option, costing between $8 to $21 per square foot. The cost varies due to the different colours and installation patterns. Aluminum siding is a popular alternative to wood, costing between $6 to $10 per square foot. It is low maintenance, fireproof, and insect-proof. Steel siding is more durable than aluminum but more expensive, costing between $7 to $16 per square foot. Natural stone siding is the most expensive option, costing between $15 to $45 per square foot.

Siding costs by home size

The cost of siding a house depends on the size of the house, the type of siding material, and the cost of labor.

For a 2,500-square-foot house, siding costs can range from $13,325 to $32,500. This includes the cost of materials and installation. The average cost of siding is $10 per square foot.

• Vinyl siding: $4 to $13 per square foot, or $10,000 to $30,000 for a 2,500-square-foot house.
• Aluminum siding: $6 to $10 per square foot, or $15,000 to $25,000 for a 2,500-square-foot house.
• Wood siding: $5 to $15 per square foot, or $12,500 to $37,500 for a 2,500-square-foot house.
• Fiber cement siding: $6 to $15 per square foot, or $15,000 to $37,500 for a 2,500-square-foot house.
• Brick siding: $8 to $28 per square foot, or $20,000 to $70,000 for a 2,500-square-foot house.
• Stone siding: $15 to $45 per square foot.

It's important to note that labor costs for siding installation can vary depending on the complexity of the job and the location. Additionally, there may be additional costs for old siding removal, permits, and inspections.

Siding installation cost

The cost of siding installation depends on several factors, including the size and shape of the house, the type and quality of the siding material, labour costs, and whether old siding needs to be removed.

House Size and Shape

The larger the house, the more material and labour will be required for the job, increasing the overall cost. Additionally, houses with unusual shapes, multiple stories, eaves, turrets, or angled facings will require more complex and time-consuming installation, resulting in higher labour costs.

Siding Material and Quality

The type and quality of siding material is a significant cost factor. Vinyl siding is one of the most popular and affordable options, typically costing between $3 to $12 per square foot. Wood siding is also relatively inexpensive, ranging from $2 to $15 per square foot, while brick siding is more expensive, starting at $9 per square foot. Stone siding can be the most costly, reaching up to $50 per square foot.

Labour Costs

Labour costs for siding installation typically range from $1 to $4 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation and the local market rates. Some contractors may charge an hourly rate, which can be between $40 to $90 per hour.

Old Siding Removal

If old siding needs to be removed, this will incur additional costs for labour and disposal. The condition of the old siding will also impact the removal costs. If the siding is in poor condition with chipping and wear, the preparation of the exterior surface for new siding will be more extensive and expensive.

Other Factors

Other factors that can influence the cost of siding installation include the time of year, with off-season installations potentially offering lower rates, and the need for building permits, which can range from $150 to $1,500 depending on local regulations.

Overall Cost Estimates

For a typical single-family home ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet, siding installation costs can vary from $5,000 to $14,050, with an average cost of around $10,000 to $15,500. However, the total cost can be higher or lower depending on the specific factors mentioned above.

Siding quality

Material

The choice of siding material significantly impacts its quality. Vinyl siding, for example, is a popular and cost-effective option known for its durability, low maintenance, and ability to mimic the appearance of other materials like wood or stone. However, vinyl may crack, warp, or melt under stress. Wood siding, on the other hand, offers a traditional and timeless look but requires more maintenance and is susceptible to rot, insects, and fire. Fiber cement siding is highly durable, moisture and rot-resistant, and can be made to resemble wood or stone. It is also fire-resistant and pest-resistant. Aluminum siding is another option that is insect-proof and fire-resistant, but it is prone to dents and scratches.

Thickness and Durability

The thickness of siding panels is a crucial indicator of quality. Thicker panels generally denote higher quality and are more resistant to impacts and warping. For instance, vinyl siding panels should ideally be at least .040 inches thick, with premium products ranging from .042 to .045 inches.

Weather Resistance

High-quality siding should be engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, and temperature fluctuations. Features like reinforced nailing hems and interlocking panel designs contribute to better weather resistance, ensuring the siding can withstand various climates.

Color Retention

Quality siding should include UV-resistant additives to prevent fading and colour changes due to sun exposure. Look for products with warranties that specifically cover colour retention to ensure the siding maintains its appearance and curb appeal over time.

Installation

Even the highest-quality siding can fail if not installed correctly. Proper surface preparation, including ensuring a clean, dry, and level surface, is essential. Additionally, using J-channel and other trim pieces allows for expansion and contraction of the siding material.

In summary, siding quality is influenced by the type of material chosen, the thickness and durability of the panels, weather resistance, colour retention, and proper installation techniques. By considering these factors, you can select siding that will enhance the appearance and protection of your home while also ensuring its longevity.

Old siding removal

The cost of removing old siding varies depending on the size of the house and the amount of siding to be removed. For a 2,500-square-foot home, the cost of removing old siding is between $2,050 and $3,750.

However, hiring a contractor to remove old siding can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000.

• Prepare the home by gathering the necessary tools and supplies, such as a siding removal tool, closed-toe shoes, an extension ladder, or temporary scaffolding.
• Unlock the vinyl panel by lifting up the corner and inserting the siding removal tool to pry the panel toward you, creating a gap that your fingers can fit into.
• Remove the siding removal tool and use your fingers to glide along the panel, freeing the lip as you go. Be sure to reposition your ladder as needed to avoid overreaching.
• If you need to remove the vinyl panel mid-wall, start by unlocking the vinyl panel above the section you wish to replace. Then, lift the panel and insert the siding removal tool to pry it back, allowing you to fit your fingers or pliers underneath and lift it towards you.
• Slide the panel over by gently loosening the bottom corner so that it overlaps the vertical edge of the house without causing damage.
• Grab one side of the vinyl and slide it out, bending it, and then set it aside.
• Remove the nails using a claw hammer and a bucket, and a pry bar for any stubborn nails.
• Unsnap the bottom of the vinyl panel and pop it out, repeating this step for any additional panels.
• Repeat the process for removing vinyl around doors and windows, checking for any rot or damage to the wood trim underneath.
• Dispose of the vinyl siding by cleaning it with soap and water for reuse or donation if it's in good condition. If it's damaged, consider renting a dumpster to dispose of the panels.

It's important to inspect the framework of your home for any issues like mold, moisture, insects, or damage before installing new siding.

Frequently asked questions